Danish Kaneria and Andre Nel are both returning to Essex for the 2008 season. Nel, the South Africa fast bowler, will play from April 16 to May 18 while Kaneria, Pakistan's legspinner, will take over from May 21.

"Although we had already contracted Danish Kaneria for the 2008 season he asked us if he could delay his arrival in the UK so that he could be with his wife for the birth of their second child," David East, the Essex chief executive, said. "Naturally we agreed to this request and are delighted that Andre has agreed to play for us for the important opening month of the season. Andre is well known to us and has a fantastic rapport with our players.

"Subject to his domestic cricket commitments he ensures that we have a world-class overseas bowler for the whole of our 2008 campaign."

Nel's signing is subject to obtaining a work permit and permission from Cricket South Africa, but he was nevertheless bristling with enthusiasm at the prospect of returning to the club for the third time.

"I am delighted to be returning to Essex for the beginning of the season," he said. "I enjoyed my time at the club in 2007 immensely and can't wait to rejoin the boys for the first game. I look forward to giving my all in an early season burst for the club."